UK NATIONAL STEELBAND PANORAMA 2026 ROUNDUP – REAL STEEL ORCHESTRA
Over three decades ago, a sum of £1,500 was utilised to procure five steel pans and enlist the professional guidance of Toussaint Clarke, a prominent figure and world class tuner associated with Bath-based Rainbow Steel Orchestra. Recognising the enthusiasm of both the school and community members, the Estover Percussion Project stepped forward to provide the necessary financial support for their aspirations.
Consequently, eight members from Estover Community College united their talents to establish the Estover Steel Band. Through unwavering commitment and relentless effort, this all-girl steel ensemble has since blossomed into the highly acclaimed Real Steel, which holds its base of operations in Plymouth. The band's remarkable journey has been led by the gifted arranger, Leroy Clarke.
Leroy Clarke on drums in the Rhythm Section
Real Steel has established remarkable connections with steel bands worldwide, including Contrast Steel Band in Leicester and Calypsonic in Germany, all of whom come together to collaborate for the Notting Hill Carnival. These partnerships showcase Real Steel's commitment to fostering a global community of steel pan enthusiasts, promoting cultural exchange. By teaming up with diverse steel bands from different countries, Real Steel enriches their performances and contributes to the growth and diversity of the steel pan music on an international scale.
Real Steel’s excellence in performance was recognised when they were crowned Panorama Champions in 2012, 2013, and 2014, an unprecedented feat for being the only band located outside of London to win. Securing a historic hat trick, they have become the second band to have ever achieved this.
Real Steel Jammin!
Real Steel has established remarkable connections with steel bands worldwide, including Contrast Steel Band in Leicester and Calypsonic in Germany, all of whom come together to collaborate for the Notting Hill Carnival. These partnerships showcase Real Steel's commitment to fostering a global community of steel pan enthusiasts, promoting cultural exchange. By teaming up with diverse steel bands from different countries, Real Steel enriches their performances and contributes to the growth and diversity of the steel pan music on an international scale.
Real Steel Front .line!
Real Steel’s excellence in performance was recognised when they were crowned Panorama Champions in 2012, 2013, and 2014, an unprecedented feat for being the only band located outside of London to win. Securing a historic hat trick, they have become the second band to have ever achieved this.
Toussaint Clarke on the Iron!
Their Panorama band will be made up of eighty players.
Director: Rachael Duchnowski
Manager: Leroy Clarke
Arranger: Leroy Clarke
Captain: Joe Friend
Tuner: Toussaint Clarke
Tune of Choice: Rant and Rave by Tambu
Players: 80
There are five steelbands vying for the title this year, Ebony – the reigning champions, Mangrove, Metronomes, Real Steel and Southside Harmonics.
The event is hosted by NHC/BAS, and will be held on the 29th August 2026 at the Emslie Horiman’s Pleasance Park, Kensal Road, London W10 5EG.
The gates open at 4:00p.m. and the event ends at 12:00 a.m.
Tickets are available online @ nhcarnival.org/panorama.
Tickets: £20
Children - £7
Children under five accompanied with an adult - Free
Real Steel Jammin!
